Introduction
This article is about Rust as a language; as for our regular question, I won't explain the origin of the language, just the use of this almost new language. I will dig into performance, reliability, productivity, and use cases.
I'm excited because I've been studying this language for some months, but you know the best way to learn is by doing. In this article, I won't do a small app like I did in previous articles, so you can check it out, too.
So, Why the use of Rust?
Performance
I was reading the rust-lang.org, and I have found that one of the main use if for performance for low level language, it has memory-efficient capabilities so no runtime or various phases to run the program or app. I noted also that not using garbage collector in other words: like other languages that removes objects no longer in use.
This makes it extremely faster than most languages, to name a few, like Java, C#, Python, Ruby, Javascript, Go, etc. Besides that, can run on embedded devices like: Smart TVs, Digital cameras, Video game consoles, Smartwatches, E-book readers, the list is almost infinite.
Reliability
As on the official page, it's explained: "Rust's rich type system and ownership model guarantee memory-safety and thread-safe, enabling you to eliminate many classes of bugs at compile-time". That means that when I'm writing code in Rust, I have a powerful ally in the compiler that prevents me from making common programming mistakes before my code even runs. That sounds really good to be true amazing, right? For instance, if I accidentally try to use a variable after I've freed its memory or if I attempt to modify data that's being accessed by multiple threads simultaneously, Rust will catch these issues during compilation.
Think of it like having a very meticulous code reviewer who checks every single detail of memory usage and data sharing in your program. The compiler ensures I can't shoot myself in the foot with problems like null pointer exceptions, memory leaks, or data races-- issues that are notoriously difficult to debug in Java, where the JVM's garbage collector can mask underlying memory management problems and concurrent modifications can lead to subtle runtime errors.
Productivity
When I first started working with Rust, what immediately struck me was how the entire ecosystem is designed for developer productivity. Unlike many other systems programming languages, Rust doesn't leave you guessing. Its documentation is comprehensive and accessible, reading more like a helpful guide than a technical manual. For me, this is the most boring and tedious task, but we, as developers, must take it.
But what truly sets Rust apart is its compiler. Instead of cryptic error messages that send you down a Google rabbit hole or our great community of Stackoverflow (I love it), Rust's compiler acts like a patient mentor. It not only points out what went wrong but often suggests how to fix it. For example, if you make a common mistake with borrowing or ownership, the compiler provides clear, actionable feedback about how to correct your code.
The tooling ecosystem is equally impressive. Cargo, Rust's package manager, like in node we use npm modules, or in Java import packages too, Rust build tool, makes dependency management and project build feel effortless. The IDE support is top-notch -- whether you're using VS Code like me, IntelliJ, or another major editor, you'll get smart auto-completion and real-time type inspections that help you catch issues as you code. Plus, with tools like rustfmt automatically formatting your code as you go, you can focus on solving problems rather than arguing about code style.
Use Cases
Do you know what's fascinating about Rust? It's showing up everywhere these days. Let me paint you a picture of where Rust is making waves:
Systems and Infrastructure?
That's Rust's playground. Discord moved their gaming platform over to Rust and managed to cut their memory usage dramatically. Instead of their server catching fire during massive gaming sessions, Rust's memory efficiency keeps things running smoothly. Even Dropbox uses Rust for its file synchronization because when you're handling millions of people's files, you can't afford memory glitches.
Then there's Cloudfare, which is using Rust right at the edge of the Internet. They replaced some of their critical C code with Rust, and guess what? Better security and fewer crashes. When you're protecting websites from attacks, that's exactly what you need.
But here's what really gets me excited: Firefox. Mozilla (Rust's original creator) is gradually replacing Firefox's core engine parts with Rust code. Why? Because they want their browser to be fast AND secure. No more memory-related security bugs keeping their engineers up at night.
Operating Systems
Oh yes. Microsoft is seriously looking at Rust for Windows components, I can't even believe but well let's see. They're tired of dealing with memory security bugs in C and C++ code. Even the Linux kernel (please don't kill me to say this I hope :) ) the hardcode C fortress -- is opening its doors to Rust.
And another cool one: Microsoft's Azure IoT Edge? Rust. Because when you're running code on tiny devices processing sensitive data, you need something that's both lightweight and bulletproof.
Cryptocurrency
Even cryptocurrency folks jumped on the Rust train, but we all know it was a natural process. Projects like Solana picked Rust because they need their blockchain to be fast and absolutely secure. When you're handling people's money, there's no room for memory bugs.
There are countless of use cases I can't even imagine what will be the future without Rust, I love my other main languages like: Javascript, Python, Java, but his one it the one I've added to my repertoire.
Oh one more please sir:
Want to know what's wild? Companies like 1Password rewrote their password manager's core in Rust. Think about it, when you're protecting people's passwords this is an obvious pick, you want a language that takes security right down to the memory level.
Conclusion
I have shown the field of Rust, what Rust is, performance gains with this amazing popular language, and what we can do with memory issues and garbage collection so, just get rid of no more crashes. The use cases are amazing many companies are embracing this language. With its blazing performance, reliability, and developer-friendly tools, Rust is transforming everything from web browsers to blockchain platforms. While its learning curve might be steep, the payoff is clear: more reliable software, fewer critical bugs, and happier developers. As we move into an era where security and performance are non-negotiable, Rust isn't just an alternative; it's increasingly becoming the go-to choice for building the future of software.
References
- Rust Programming Language
- Rust Documentation
- Rust Package Registry (crates.io)
- Discord's Journey with Rust
- Cloudflare's Experience
- Firefox and Rust
- This Week in Rust
- Awesome Rust
- Rust Blog
About the Author
Ivan Duarte is a backend developer with experience working freelance. He is passionate about web development and artificial intelligence and enjoys sharing their knowledge through tutorials and articles. Follow me on X, Github, and LinkedIn for more insights and updates.
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